Small Planes Spared Fees in Ag Inspection Mix-Up Patch
Published Date: 8/15/2025
Rule
Summary
Starting October 1, 2024, some rules about fees for agricultural inspections changed, but a special fee exemption for small commercial planes (64 seats or fewer) was accidentally removed. After hearing from folks, the government fixed the mistake and put the exemption back, so small planes won’t have to pay these fees for now. This keeps things fair and clear for airlines and travelers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Small Aircraft AQI Fee Exemption Restored
This rule restores an exemption so commercial passenger aircraft with 64 or fewer seats that meet certain conditions do not have to pay the Agricultural Quarantine and Inspection (AQI) user fee. The exemption had been affected by a rule that took effect October 1, 2024; removal of the exemption had been scheduled for April 1, 2025, was delayed on March 21, 2025 to June 2, 2025, and implementation of the removal was later delayed indefinitely, after which this amendment restores the exemption.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-05978 — Bayer CropScience: Determination of Nonregulated Status of MON 95275 Maize (Corn)
The USDA says Bayer’s MON 95275 corn, engineered to fight pesky rootworms, is now free from special government rules starting March 19, 2026. This means farmers can grow it without extra paperwork or delays, helping protect crops and possibly saving money. Everyone from farmers to consumers benefits as this corn gets a green light after careful safety checks.
2026-04922 — Notice of Availability of a Pest Risk Analysis for the Importation of Fresh Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.)) Roots From the Republic of Korea Into the United States
The USDA has finished a study on the risks of bringing fresh sweet potatoes from South Korea into the U.S. mainland. They found that with certain safety steps, these imports won’t spread harmful pests or weeds. People and businesses involved in importing or selling sweet potatoes should check out the study and share their thoughts by May 12, 2026.
2026-04923 — Notice of Request for Revision to and Extension of Approval of an Information Collection; Cooperative State-Federal Brucellosis Eradication Program
The USDA wants to keep and update the paperwork for the Cooperative State-Federal Brucellosis Eradication Program, which helps stop a cattle disease called brucellosis. This affects farmers, vets, and state officials who track and report on the disease. They’re asking for public comments by May 12, 2026, and the changes won’t cost extra but will keep the program running smoothly.
2026-04459 — Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc.; Availability of a Request and Plant Pest Risk Similarity Assessment for an Extension of Determination of Nonregulated Status for Maize (Corn) Genetically Engineered for Insect Resistance and Herbicide Tolerance
Pioneer Hi-Bred wants to extend the nonregulated status of their genetically engineered corn, DP51291, which is designed to resist certain bugs and tolerate a specific herbicide—just like their earlier corn, DP23211. The USDA is sharing their safety review and asking the public to comment by April 6, 2026. This means farmers could soon have more pest-resistant, herbicide-friendly corn options without extra regulations.
2026-04316 — Addition of Sri Lanka to the List of Regions Affected by African Swine Fever
Sri Lanka has been officially added to the list of places affected by African Swine Fever (ASF) starting December 4, 2024. This means the U.S. will tighten rules on importing pork and pork products from Sri Lanka to keep our pigs safe and sound. Farmers, importers, and pork lovers should watch for these changes to avoid any surprises or delays.
2026-04206 — Notice of Proposed Revision to Requirements for the Importation of Pineapples From Taiwan Into the United States
The USDA is thinking about letting all kinds of fresh pineapples from Taiwan be imported anywhere in the U.S., not just certain types or places like Guam. This change could open up new pineapple options for stores and customers across the country. People have until May 4, 2026, to share their thoughts before any final decisions are made.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-15538 — Special Local Regulation; Casco Bay, Cow Island, Long Island, ME
The Coast Guard is setting up a temporary safety zone in Casco Bay near Cow Island, ME, for an offshore concert with lots of boats watching. They’re creating a special area for spectators, a safe lane for boats to move through, and rules like no swimming and slow speeds to keep everyone safe. This affects anyone boating in the area during the event and helps make sure the fun stays safe and smooth.
Next: 2025-15555 — Mandipropamid; Pesticide Tolerance
The EPA is setting a safe limit for mandipropamid pesticide residues on papayas, thanks to a request from Syngenta Crop Protection. This means farmers and food sellers can keep using this pesticide within the new rules, keeping papayas safe to eat. The change helps protect consumers without adding extra costs or delays.
Take It Personal
Get Your Personalized Policy View
Start a Free Government Policy Watch to see how policy affects your household, then upgrade to PRIA Full Coverage for year-round monitoring.
Already have an account? Sign in